Headsets

Most airsoft radios, including the most popular Baofeng UV-5R, use a standard two-pin Kenwood-type connector (3.5 mm pin for the earpiece and 2.5 mm for the microphone).

Depending on how they’re worn and the level of discretion, we divide headsets into several categories:

• Earpiece: Often included in the basic package with the radio. It has a soft rubber hook shaped like the letter "G" that hooks around the ear. The speaker sits on the outside of the ear canal, which is more comfortable for long-term wear but provides less isolation from ambient noise.
• Security headset (neckband): The classic “security guard headset” with a transparent silicone sound tube. Sound is directed straight into the ear, ensuring maximum discretion even in noisy environments.
• Neck microphone (Laryngophone): Captures sound via vibrations directly from the vocal cords. Ideal for users wearing full-face masks or in extreme wind and noise (e.g., during shooting or in a moving vehicle), as it completely eliminates ambient noise.
• Tactical Headphones: Large headsets that combine communication with hearing protection (often from brands like Earmor, WADSN, or Z-Tactical) designed for airsoft or shooting ranges. They require an external PTT (Push-to-Talk) adapter with a Kenwood connector to connect to the radio.

Tactical headsets for airsoft: Do I need active electronics?

Proper tactical use of headsets with a radio is crucial for team coordination, as well as for an individual’s combat effectiveness, where you need to have your hands free while maintaining an immediate overview of the situation.

Standard headsets are not used for intensive tactical purposes. Specialized military kits come into play. Active electronic headsets, such as those from Earmor, WADSN, or Z-Tactical, are a huge hit among airsoft players

Types of tactical headsets

• Active electronic headsets: This type of headset features integrated microphones and electronics that automatically attenuate dangerously loud sounds (pyrotechnic explosions, gunshots at the shooting range), while simultaneously amplifying quiet sounds, such as the whispers of teammates or the footsteps of an approaching enemy. Additionally, they can be mounted directly onto airsoft helmets using special adapters. If you’re looking for a lightweight option, the Bowman (Lightweight) is a great choice 
• Bowman / Lightweight type: This special single-sided headset with a head strap allows you to hear your surroundings with your other ear. They are lightweight and comfortable to wear under a helmet.

The Key Role of the PTT (Push-to-Talk) Adapter

Tactical military headsets have a specific, large connector (Military jack) that cannot be plugged directly into a radio. To connect the headset to a Baofeng, for example, you need a PTT adapter with a Kenwood connector.
This adapter functions as a large, mechanical button that you clip onto the chest or shoulder of your tactical vest. It is designed so that you can easily feel it and operate it even while wearing thick tactical gloves and under combat stress.

Pros and Cons of Using Headsets in Airsoft

Before purchasing a complete radio set, it’s good to know the pros and cons:

Pros:

Instant overview: You constantly hear team updates without having to fish the radio out of the pouch on your back.
Absolute discretion: The sound goes directly into your ear, so the radio won’t give you away during a silent
Hearing protection: Active headphones will save your eardrums if a sound grenade goes off next to you inside a building.

Disadvantages and how to solve them:

• Annoying cables: Cables tend to get caught on branches. You can solve this by securing them properly to your tactical vest using Velcro or straps.
• Two-pin vulnerability: For example, the Kenwood two-pin connector on Baofeng (or generally cheaper radios) can pop out during sudden movement, causing the transmission to jam. Experienced users therefore secure the PTT connector on the radio with a rubber band or zip tie.
• Sound quality of cheap copies: The cheapest Chinese replicas tend to have a tinny sound. If you’re looking for the sweet spot with a perfect price-to-performance ratio, go for Earmor products.

Key features and specifications

• PTT button: Some headset models have an integrated Push-to-Talk button on the cable along with a clip designed for attaching to gear.
• VOX compatibility: The UV-5R supports the VOX (voice-activated transmission) function, which can be used with these headsets for completely hands-free operation.
• Cable Material: Higher-quality models use PU (polyurethane) material, which is more resistant to breaking and pulling (often tested for tensile strength up to 5 kg).
• Audio Adapter: There are also adapters that allow you to connect standard mobile headphones with a 3.5 mm jack to the headset.

How to choose the best headphones for airsoft?

When shopping, focus on these key factors:

• Noise cancellation: If possible, definitely go for headphones with noise-canceling capabilities. This feature will significantly improve call quality and ensure you don’t miss any important information during a game due to background noise.
• Comfort and gel ear pads: You’ll likely have the headphones on your head all day. Standard foam ear pads start to feel tight after a few hours, especially when combined with [protective goggles] (insert link to goggles here). We recommend purchasing [gel ear pads] (insert link to headset accessories here). The gel molds perfectly around the arms of your glasses, doesn’t press, and provides much better isolation.
• Durability: If you plan to use them in demanding conditions, such as airsoft battles or outdoor activities, we recommend looking for a model that is dust-, water-, and impact-resistant.
• Price: Consider your budget and the features offered. Higher-end models often offer more advanced features, such as better sound quality or increased durability, but even basic models often meet your needs and requirements.
• Additional accessories: Every reputable headphone manufacturer also offers various accessories, such as replacement ear pads, headphone covers, etc.
• Wearing style: Before purchasing, you need to decide whether you want to wear the headphones loosely on your head, on a baseball cap, or if you plan to attach them to a helmet as well. Some headphones allow you to purchase a helmet adapter, so you don’t have to buy multiple sets of headphones. An example is the M32 headphones from Earmor.

Powering Active Headphones and Caring for Them

Active shooting headphones require their own power source—in the form of AAA batteries—to function, suppressing ambient noise and amplifying voice communication. These batteries must be replaced with new ones after some time. It’s best to use disposable batteries, as the electronics in the headphones don’t always work well with rechargeable options. Today’s active headphones often feature an auto-shutoff function after a period of inactivity, but to extend their battery life, we definitely recommend manually turning off the headphones during breaks and after the event is over.